Jones Smiles - May 2018

THE WELLNESS

REPORT

May 2018

770-965-3048

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www.JonesSmiles.com

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CHANGE LIVES THE POWER TO Why I Love Working at Jones Smiles

My passion for dentistry began at a young age. As

Outside the office, I’m a busy mother of three. With a 3-year- old, a 6-year-old, and an 8-year-old running around the house, it’s an understatement to say my husband, Jeff, and I have our hands full. But whenever we can find the time, we love to relax and travel as a family. In fact, this month, we’re heading back to Disney — a trip I’d take every month if it were feasible. It’s sure to be another enchanting and wonderful vacation. Though, as we wrangle three young children all over the park, it’s really more like a “working vacation,” as Jeff and I like to say. It’s the kind of carefully controlled chaos we’ve come to love. The other day, one of my favorite patients came in for a routine cleaning. I’ve been treating him regularly for years. He originally came in for a quote on a full-mouth rehabilitation — another dental office had estimated $40,000 for the treatment. Over the coming months, we treated him at one-fourth of the cost he’d been quoted, transforming his worn and broken-down teeth into a healthy, functional, beautiful smile. Every time he comes in, I’m reminded why I love the work I do. His newfound pride and confidence puts me on cloud nine the instant he steps through the door, eager to chat with me and the rest of the team. He reminds me of my family members who struggled so long with smiles they were afraid to show. Now he’s a comfortable, easygoing, warm, and happy guy — a living embodiment of the reason I come to the office each day, ready to change lives.

a child, I observed that some members of my family suffered from persistent dental issues. These loved ones rarely grinned fully, and when they did, it was never without considering their appearance, hiding away their smile whenever possible. It was obvious to me just how often their teeth were on their minds — it was a constant source of anxiety that destroyed their confidence. However, I also saw the incredibly positive impact that an experienced dental expert can have on their patients’ lives. I began to imagine what it would be like to have that kind of effect on people. When I was in seventh grade, I shadowed our family dentist for a school project, eagerly bombarding him with all kinds of questions. From then on, my path was set. Years later, I worked to complete a full-mouth rehabilitation on my mother, and I knew beyond a doubt that I had made the right decision. After the treatment, she steadily unlearned the anxious, smile-hiding habits she’d developed over decades. She began to grin freely with restored confidence and joy. I’m a dental hygienist with the warm and collaborative team at Jones Smiles, helping my patients make powerful, positive changes that spread to every aspect of their lives. Not only do I get to serve others in the way I always wanted to, but I get to be part of a close-knit work family where everyone works together each day to tangibly improve our patients’ well-being.

–Kelly Ford

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Y our body plays host to thousands of types of bacteria. The gastrointestinal tract alone is a remarkable ecosystem, filled with millions upon millions of microscopic organisms. These organisms play a key role in your ability to digest and process nutrients. But they also play another important role that’s not so obvious: They influence your mood and the way you think. Researchers are studying the “how” behind the connection, but they suspect it has something to do with the vagus nerve. The vagus nerve is a major nerve that connects the brain and stomach. Bacterial activity in the gut may stimulate the nerve, causing it to produce chemicals in the brain that can change your state of mind. Probiotics — a helpful type of bacteria — are abundant in Greek yogurt and other cultured foods, such as sauerkraut, kimchi, and kombucha. When you eat these foods, the cultures they contain may be able to influence your mood. If you need a mood booster, yogurt might help. A YOGURT STATE OF MIND

Boost Your Mood With Probiotics

Studies in both mice and humans show promising results. In one Caltech study, researchers observed a decrease in anxiety in mice given certain probiotics. In another study published in The British Journal of Nutrition, researchers observed the effects of specific probiotics on humans. Over a 30-day period, they noted a decrease in the signs of depression and anxiety. Many more studies are currently underway. The future of probiotics for the brain is promising. As we learn more about the connection between the gut and the brain, we may even be able to treat specific psychological conditions using probiotics. For now, though, if you want to boost your mood, reach for the yogurt. Just be sure to skip the sugar-laden processed stuff. Go straight for a high-quality Greek yogurt or, if you can find it, an Icelandic-style yogurt called skyr. Both varieties are packed with helpful probiotics and may help you change your state of mind.

WHAT OUR PATIENTS ARE SAYING

I actually feel so relaxed about and look forward to coming to the dentist now. The office is beautiful, and the staff and doctors are excellent in every aspect of care. I never feel rushed, as every question is always answered with science-based knowledge and personalized to my concern. It’s a perfect combination of state- of-the-art equipment, knowledge, skill, and unmatched customer service. I would highly recommend Dr. Jones and his associates. –KATIE K. Wonderfully friendly and welcoming staff! I had not been to the dentist in five years when I first came to Jones, so I was very nervous about my visit. A friend of mine, Kelly Ford, is a hygienist at Jones Smiles, and she spoke so highly of her workplace that I decided to give it a try. Now I understand why she’s so happy there. From the second I walked in, I felt like family, and

I absolutely LOVED the fact that there was NO lecturing about the time between cleanings or my lack of flossing. Just a genuine desire to help me get back on track with clean, healthy teeth! Now I don’t dread those six-month cleanings! –CHRISTY S. Amazing staff and a great place to get any dental work done. I used to be terrified of dentists when I was younger, but Shae, Jones, and everyone else at Jones Smiles make it a fun and easy experience every time. I definitely recommend everyone to go here for any work they need done. –ADAM C.

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Would you rather endure the agony of a cavity than step foot in a dentist’s office? Does the idea of a simple teeth cleaning make you squirm with fear? If you’re afraid of going to the dentist, or if you haven’t been to the dentist in years, you’re not alone. Thousands of people put off the dental care they need because of fear and anxiety. Luckily, we can help, no matter how fearful you may be. Dr. Eric Jones has helped literally thousands of patients who were also nervous about dental treatment. With sedation dentistry, you can finally relax in the dentist’s chair and get the dental work you need, often in just one or two appointments, completely without pain or anxiety. Dr. Jones is one of the few dentists in the country qualified to give both oral and IV sedation for all dental procedures, whether extensive or minor. We offer nitrous oxide (laughing gas) as well for lighter sedation when needed. Together, we will form a plan to correct any problems you may have while keeping you comfortable throughout the process. WHO’S AFRAID BIG BAD DENTIST? OF THE

If You Have Dental Anxiety, Sedation May Be the Answer

Sedation dentistry is perfect for you under these circumstances: • You have a low pain threshold. • You cannot sit still in the dentist’s chair during a procedure. • You have a bad gag reflex. • You have years of neglected dental work that needs to be completed. • You have had an extremely painful or bad dental experience in the past. While many dentists can administer minimal sedation, like nitrous oxide or pills, our practice is licensed to practice IV sedation, which is perfect for the most anxious of patients who want to leave feeling better, with no memory of the procedure itself. If you’re ready to stop putting off the dental work you need because of fear, give the experts at Jones Smiles a call at 770- 965-3048 today! You can rest assured that there will be no judgment, whether it’s been a few years or even decades since you’ve been to the dentist. We will help you get back on the path to better oral health, without any pain or fear.

SMILE-FRIENDLY RECIPES

SUDOKU

GRILLED RANCH POTATOES

If you want to be the hit of this year’s Memorial Day cookout, don’t overlook the star power of a well-made side dish. These smoky, tangy grilled potatoes will be the talk of the party. The best part is how easy they are to prep and make!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds baby potatoes, halved • 1/4 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil • Juice of 1/2 lemon • 1/2 packet ranch seasoning

• Ranch dressing for drizzling • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives • Bacon bits (optional) • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat grill to medium. In a large pan, toss potatoes with olive oil, lemon juice, and ranch seasoning. Season generously with salt and pepper. 2. Skewer potatoes. (If using wood skewers, be sure to soak in water an hour before grilling.) Grill until tender and lightly charred, about 15 minutes. 3. Drizzle with ranch and garnish with chives and bacon bits Inspired by delish.com

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7330 Spout Springs Road, Suite C15 Flowery Branch, GA 30542 www.JonesSmiles.com 770-965-3048

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Kelly Ford on How Dentistry Changes Lives PAGE1 Boost Your Mood With Yogurt What Our Patients Are Saying PAGE2 Overcome Your Dental Fears With Sedation Dentistry Grilled Ranch Potatoes PAGE3 The Key to a Memorable Vacation PAGE4

BUY LOCAL WHEN YOU’RE ABROAD ENRICH YOUR VACATION

Art Just as your town probably has local artisans who produce unique and interesting work, the same is true for your vacation destination. Anyone can get a gift shop bauble that was mass-produced somewhere else. Take the time to peruse market stalls and craft fairs while you travel. It can lead you to some truly special souvenirs, and you’ll support the arts and traditions of the region! People While you’re out sampling local restaurants and exploring local markets, you’ll meet plenty of local people. Don’t be afraid to strike up a friendly conversation. You can make new friends around the globe and learn about their unique experiences. One of the most enriching experiences in life is meeting new people and gaining new perspectives. Memories Treasured memories are the best souvenir you can bring home from any vacation. So you owe it to yourself to get out and explore!

The virtues of buying locally sourced food and supporting small businesses have been widely extolled. But we rarely think to apply the same practices when we travel. Many Americans spring for all- inclusive packages when planning their next summer vacation, but doing so means they’ll miss out on some of the best aspects of the culture they’re visiting. Part of the joy of traveling is having new experiences you can’t have at home. Whether you’re in another state or another country, you owe it to yourself to seek out the unique aspects of that location. But to find the character and quirks of your destination, you’ll have to explore beyond the hotel lobby. Food Why have a cheeseburger from a fast-food chain when you can try a local favorite? A great way to start is by asking your taxi driver or hotel concierge about their favorite place to eat. You’ll discover new foods and flavor combinations, and the locally owned restaurant is sure to appreciate your business!

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